Pedestrians have the chance to walk across the new Beaumont Bridge tomorrow (Sunday July 30) before it opens for two-way traffic in early August.

The bridge is a replacement for the single lane bridge built in 1887, one of a handful of wrought iron bridges left on New Zealand’s highway network. 

It provides an important link over the Clutha River – Mata-Au on SH8 connecting Dunedin, Central Otago and Queenstown.

The new bridge is 195 metres long, about the length of two rugby fields, features two traffic lanes, and caters for pedestrians. 

The design contract was awarded in 2018 but progress was slowed by Covid. The project was estimated to cost $25M.

The new bridge sits slightly higher than the existing bridge, which will become a part of the Clutha Gold Trail which follows the Clutha - Mata-Au between Lake Roxburgh Village and Lawrence.

The original wrought iron bridge will be closed to traffic and become part of the Clutha Gold Trail. PHOTO: The Central App

Ahead of the bridge opening to two-way traffic in early August, Sunday’s event allows pedestrians to see the roadway up close, not only the adjacent footpaths. Following some short formalities, the new bridge will open to the public from 12 noon to 2pm.. 

The creative detailing of the bridge draws inspiration from a waka huia, a container to hold precious items, offering protection to those who cross it. The upstream barrier has cast-in patterns that reflect the swirling water movements below. It also carries the traditional name of the Clutha River – Mata-au.

Panels designed by Ngāi Tahu artists will be installed on downstream barrier. PHOTO: Supplied 

Glowing gold panels being installed on the downstream barrier have been modelled after the bell-like flowers of the kōwhai tree, a native to the area and a lucrative resource that once drew in diggers from far and wide.

The design and art works are by Kāi Tahu artists Emma Kitson, Neil Pardington, and Keri Whaitiri.